How often have we heard these words? Pretty often, especially in the context of meeting new people.

But, for some reason, this is one of those cases where it is much easier said than done. Why is that?

We have this stupid idea stuck in our head that we have to make a good impression, that we need to put up a protective barrier, at least until we start to get know other people a little bit better. We don’t want to say or do anything that might upset the other person. I guess initially, I understand this reasoning, especially depending on the situation. (If you are interviewing for a job, making a sales pitch to a new company, or meeting with a perspective landlord you want to make a good first impression. I get that.)

But, I think in general, we as a society need to embrace each other—just as we are. So, honestly, just start being yourself. We are all different, and that is what makes us great!

Plus, isn’t the idea of just being who you are, and not worrying about what other people think or say about you, refreshing? It takes a world of weight off of your shoulders. Because, as long as you are happy and content with who you are, who cares what anyone else thinks anyway? No matter who you are, or how you act, there will always be some people who like you and some people who don’t. So, why worry about it? There is nothing you can do to change that. It is just human nature.

And, I go back to quality over quantity. I would much rather have a few people who love me for the real me, than a lot of them who say or think they like me, but don’t even really know me.

I also believe that people have this idea stuck in their head that they need to be above average or extraordinary. Since when is bad to be ordinary? It is like that is a dirty word.

I celebrate being ordinary. I am an average person who makes mistakes. I am an average person who is growing and changing everyday. This is what humans do.

The problem happens when we start to think that “being ordinary” is a bad thing. It isn’t…because we are all ordinary; we are all just human beings. Ordinary people are the ones who do extraordinary things. Everybody starts out ordinary.

Now, notice that I didn’t say that being ordinary or average means that I am a nobody. If we believe that lie, then we cannot develop the gifts that we have been given. And, each and every one of us has special and unique gifts. It is up to us to grow and use these gifts, to put them into action for the greater good. When you invite God to work through you, an average, ordinary human being, you become extraordinary.

Besides, I believe that much of life happens in the ordinary, the average, the everyday. Yes, some days are exceptional and some days are horrible. But, in general, most days are average. And, I, for one, am grateful for that.

In closing, I believe that if you just be your true self and strive for growth and doing the right thing on average days, then you will discover the extraordinary power of being yourself. And, just being yourself is a glorious thing!